At Nutwell Saddlery we specialise in helping riders find the perfect saddle for their horse and their chosen discipline. Whether you’re into dressage, show jumping, eventing or general riding, choosing the right saddle can make a huge difference to your performance and your horse’s comfort.
Understanding different types of saddles
Before you buy a saddle, it’s important to think carefully about what kind of riding you’ll be doing. We offer general purpose (GP), jump, XC and dressage saddles, and our experienced team will guide you through finding the right saddle for you.
General-purpose saddles
If your riding includes a mix of jumping and hacking, a general-purpose (GP) saddle offers great versatility. We can also advise on adjustable knee blocks (Velcro), allowing you to customise the saddle for jumping or flatwork as needed.
Jump saddles
Jump saddles are designed to allow the rider to rise out of the stirrups and move freely over fences. However, they aren’t ideal for flatwork as they are designed for knees to come forward encouraging the rider to sit to the back of the saddle with short stirrups.
Dressage saddles
For riders who focus on dressage, a dressage saddle provides a longer, straighter flap and a deeper seat to help maintain the correct position. However, these saddles aren’t suitable for disciplines like hunting, as the stirrups are generally too long.
Why saddle fit is so important
A well-fitting saddle is essential for both horse and rider comfort. It’s not just about fitting the horse; the saddle must also fit the rider.
If the saddle is too big or too small, the rider may sit too far back, putting uneven pressure on the horse’s back. In most cases, the horse performs best when the rider’s weight is as central as possible.
Our qualified saddle fitters can ensure the perfect fit for both horse and rider. Book a saddle fitting appointment today.
Does the saddle brand matter?
We’re often asked whether the brand or make of a saddle really matters. Our answer is simple, if the saddle fits properly and works for both horse and rider, then it’s a good saddle.
That said, we always recommend British-made saddles with flocked panels, as they can be adjusted over time for the best possible fit. Foam panels, common in some imported saddles offer les flexibility for adjustment.
British vs European saddles
British saddles are made with a wide variety of tree shapes and panel configurations, ensuring a better fit for the diverse range of horses we see in the UK. Many European saddles are designed for lean, fir competition horses, not for the stronger, rounder types we often see in the South West, thanks to our rich grazing and hilly terrain.
Fortunately, many British saddle companies are now designing saddles specifically for cobs and native breeds, reflecting the growing popularity of these horses in jumping, dressage, and eventing.
Find your perfect saddle at Nutwell Saddlery
Whether you’re buying your first saddle or upgrading, Nutwell Saddlery is here to help you make the right choice. Our experienced team will:
- Assess your horse’s conformation
- Recommend the right type and brand of saddle
- Ensure a perfect fit for both horse and rider
Visit our saddle fitting service page or call us today to book a fitting.
